Space Hardware Materials Test Technician I

Vast; Long Beach (CA); On-site; USD 56,000 - 80,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, vision

401(k)

Equity

Paid time off

Spring Health

Lunch subsidy

Job summary

Vast in Long Beach is seeking a Materials Test Specialist I to support development and production of spacecraft hardware. You will prepare samples, operate test equipment, and gather data to help engineers evaluate materials for flight readiness.

The role is full-time and non-exempt, reporting to the M&P Supervisor Materials Testing, with responsibilities across calibration, documentation, and safety in a hands-on lab environment.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED is required.
• 5+ years in a laboratory, manufacturing, testing, inspection, quality, or hands-on technical role.
• Ability to follow written technical procedures and trace data accurately.
• Basic proficiency with Excel and electronic documentation.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to work in cross-functional teams.

Responsibilities

• Perform hands-on materials testing and characterization for spacecraft development and production.
• Prepare, label, track, and document material specimens per procedures.
• Set up and operate lab test equipment to evaluate material properties.
• Support testing of metals, polymers, adhesives, coatings, composites, elastomers, and other materials.
• Document test data with accuracy and traceability.

Skills

Laboratory experience

Data collection

Measurement equipment

Excel

Independent work

Cross-functional teamwork

Education

High school diploma or GED

Associate degree or technical certification (materials science / related)

Tools

Universal testing machines

Hardness testers

Environmental chambers

Microscopes

Ovens

Balances

Dimensional inspection equipment

Job description

Vast in Long Beach is seeking a Materials Test Specialist I to support development and production of spacecraft hardware. You will prepare samples, operate test equipment, and gather data to help engineers evaluate materials for flight readiness.

The role is full-time and non-exempt, reporting to the M&P Supervisor Materials Testing, with responsibilities across calibration, documentation, and safety in a hands-on lab environment.